How to Price Tile Installation

Estimate the total cost before beginning a tile project.

Any proposed tile project begins with formulating a reasonable cost estimate for materials and installation. The installation pricing varies widely in different parts of the country and can be learned by asking your tile retailer for standard rates in your area. Retailers can usually recommend reputable tile installers.

Other factors to consider in cost estimating the project is demolition of old flooring, removal and replacement of plumbing fixtures and unusual room shapes or artistic tile patterns---all of which add to the labor costs. In addition, you can save 20 to 30 percent by buying your tile and materials from a wholesale supplier when possible, so you have contract only the installation labor.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the area to be tiled. Round these two dimensions to the nearest foot. Multiply the length times the width to determine the approximate square footage of the area. This formula applies to flatwork and wall tile installation. For multiple walls or rooms, calculate the area of each, and add them together for the total area.

2. Choose a tile style, and determine the number of tiles per square foot. Then multiply the number of tiles per square foot by the area calculation determined in step 1. Most standard tile is sold by the square foot. Multiply the square foot cost of the tile times the area calculated in step 1 to determine the cost.

3. Calculate the cost of substrate material such as thinset mortar or cementitious backerboard by determining the materials needed and the area that each will cover, or calculate 25 percent of the tile cost determined in step 2.

4. Add the figures calculated in steps 2 and 3 to determine the total material cost.

5. Multiply the area total times the average installation rate for your area to calculate the total installation price. Add this total to the material total from step 4 to define a cost estimate for the tile project.

Tips & Warnings

• It's recommended that you solicit the advice, if not the labor, of a licensed contractor for tile installation to ensure quality workmanship. Improperly installed tiles can break or dislodge, causing unnecessary repairs and expense.

References

• Floors Transformed: Ceramic Tile Installation Guide